Ferries to Cumberland Island & Scenic State Parks in St Marys
St. Marys
Tips on renting in St. Marys
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
St. Mary’s welcomes families to Georgia’s oldest city, where Spanish moss drapes over centuries-old oak trees and the St. Mary’s River flows toward the Atlantic. Your children will delight in boarding the Cumberland Island Ferry for the 45-minute journey to pristine barrier island shores where wild horses roam free across windswept dunes. The St. Mary’s Submarine Museum reveals Cold War history through authentic artifacts and the massive sail from a decommissioned nuclear submarine that towers over the waterfront park.
Explore the charming downtown historic district where Oak Grove Cemetery tells stories dating to the 1700s beneath towering live oaks. Up The Creek Xpeditions guides families on kayak tours through tidal marshes where dolphins surface beside your paddle and herons stalk the shallows. The nearby town of Kingsland offers additional dining options, while Jekyll Island beckons north with its Driftwood Beach and maritime forests.
Cumberland Island National Seashore captivates with 18 miles of undeveloped beaches where loggerhead turtles nest and ruins of the Carnegie family’s Dungeness mansion stand hauntingly beautiful. St. Mary’s invites you to experience coastal Georgia’s untamed wilderness and deep-rooted history where river breezes carry salt air and adventure awaits just offshore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what St. Marys has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Cumberland Island Ferry in St. Marys, Georgia, begin your journey at the ferry dock in downtown St. Marys, where you can board the Cumberland Queen Ferry for a 45-minute voyage to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Arrive at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time and be prepared to pay the round-trip ferry fare, which is $40 for adults, $38 for seniors, and $30 for children under 16, plus a $15 park entrance fee for those 16 and older. The ferry operates seven days a week from March 1 to November 30, and five days a week from December 1 to February 28.
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For a seamless boat launch experience at St. Marys, head to the St. Marys Waterfront Park, specifically the Howard Gilman Memorial Waterfront Park. Here, you’ll find a wide single-lane boat ramp, courtesy docks, and ample parking for 55 boat trailers. The park also offers restrooms, a playground, and a 180-foot fishing pier, making it an ideal spot to launch your boat and enjoy the scenic river views.
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In St. Marys, Georgia, you can rent a kayak at Knuckleheads Kayak Adventures, conveniently located at 201 W. St. Marys St. Here, you can choose from single kayaks for $20 per hour or tandem kayaks for $30 per hour. Another option is Up The Creek Xpeditions, which offers guided kayak tours and rentals, providing all the necessary equipment and instruction for a memorable paddle through the scenic waters of Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida.
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For a memorable hiking experience near St. Marys, Georgia, explore the Palmetto Trail, a scenic route that winds through historic and natural landscapes, offering glimpses of loblolly bay, water oak, and diverse birdlife. The Black Creek Trail, an 8-mile asphalt and concrete path, is ideal for both walking and biking, with its smooth surface and picturesque views. For a more leisurely hike, the Storybook Trail is a newer addition, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, with its unique blend of storytelling and natural beauty.
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In St. Marys, Georgia, some of the most scenic hiking trails include the Palmetto Trail, Sempervirens Trail, and the Bay Boardwalk Trail. The Palmetto Trail, part of a larger network, offers a serene walk through loblolly bay, water oak, and red maple forests, while the Bay Boardwalk Trail provides stunning views of the marsh and water tupelo swamps. For a family-friendly experience, the new Storybook Trail is a delightful option, featuring interactive elements and a picturesque setting, perfect for a leisurely 1.5-hour stroll at an easy pace.
